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Fitness Center For Not-so-young

Synonymous with health and fitness for nearly 40 years, Punahou Fitness Center recently underwent a $500,000 renovation this past fall, and according to CEO Jason Maxwell, his goal is to offer a comprehensive approach to fitness, catering especially to those in their 40s through 70s.

“Whether they’re looking to start a new exercise program, achieve a new level of fitness or maintain their current health, that’s what we’re here for,” says Maxwell, a certified personal trainer with close to 20 years of experience in the fitness industry and the former owner of Max Fitness Hawaii. “Punahou Fitness Center’s goal is to provide the means, expertise, motivation and atmosphere that will enable people of all ages and fitness levels the ability to meet their individual fitness goals.”

A state-of-the-art facility, Punahou Fitness Center provides a clean and comfortable space for the maturing public to work out and be fit. It also offers countless amenities, including a saltwater pool, the state’s only saltwater ice plunge, saltwater whirlpool, steam room, dry sauna, 50,000 pounds of free weights, 25 cardio machines, strength-training machines, group exercise classes, certified personal trainers, massage therapists and more.

“Members can expect a friendly, knowledgeable staff and a very positive, upbeat atmosphere that is welcoming to all, no matter what your current fitness level,” Maxwell states. “In order to help people learn about improving their own health and fitness, we need to first be healthy and fit ourselves.”

The average cost of membership is $50-$60 per month, and Maxwell says Punahou Fitness Center presents the highest level of service and amenities at a mid-level cost. As an entrepreneur, he is steering away from the approach that other mainstream gyms are taking – targeting those in their 20s and leaving the older population behind.

“The ultimate reward for me is the fulfillment of a goal I’ve been working toward for a long time. This has been the dream for years,” he says. “Yet it’s challenging to know that every decision made, albeit large or small, affects the lives of so many – from my family to each and every member.

“In this type of business, many people are relying on you to maintain their health and the quality of their lives. It can be very frustrating at times to try to provide an acceptable and affordable place to accommodate many different needs,” Maxwell adds. “Ultimately, being able to positively affect and impact the health and wellness of so many lives is reward enough.”

Maxwell is dedicated to working to grow and maintain a healthy membership base of 1,500 to 2,000 members by year’s end. His short-term goal is to help as many people as possible learn about fitness.

“Punahou Fitness Center aims to help people incorporate fitness into their lifestyle – not to just lose a few pounds, but to make their life better. The more we can help others improve their quality of life, the better I feel.

“The half-million dollars in improvements was just the beginning,” Maxwell says.